State seeks regulations for online pharmacies

Writes to central govt, requests to be empowered to act against errant firms

The central government has proposed amendments to the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945 with a view to permit online sale of drugs. A final draft proposal for e-pharmacies, inviting suggestions from the public and stakeholders had also been put up on the public domain for this. However, the food and drug administration (FDA) has asked the Centre to empower the state government to take action against e-pharmacies if found conducting unethical practices.

According to the central government’s new draft, all powers regarding permissions, regulations and actions for e-pharmacies are only with them. But, the state government has now requested to be empowered instead. Furthermore, the state has asked to start a national portal for the sale and purchase of medicines so that the FDA can keep strict vigil on all online activities.

Rajkumar Zadvuke, assistant commissioner, FDA, informed, “The state FDA has sent the proposal to the central government. All suggestions were sent to the ministry, asking for changes in the law. The state government should also be empowered to take action against errant e-pharmacies. According to the present law, all rights of licensing and powers for action are with the central government.”

Meanwhile, Kailas Tandale of the Maharashtra Registered Pharmacists Association (MRPA), said, “Chemists’ associations have been protesting against online pharmacies for a while now. Medicines dispatched by online companies are given by the delivery boys, but at chemist stores, they are given by qualified chemists. Chemists inform patients about dosages, but online pharmacies do not provide such crucial information. In some cases, medicines are to be given hours before meals. And patients are to be made aware of this.”